The Nigeria Police Force has begun withdrawing officers assigned to VIP security across the country following a directive from President Bola Tinubu. The Special Protection Unit (SPU) issued instructions for all officers attached to VIPs and beats to return to their bases immediately.
A memo signed by Neji Veronica, Commanding Officer of SPU Base 16 in Lagos, instructed officers to report back before the close of business on November 24. Shared by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the memo stated: “Sequel to the directive of Mr President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces on the withdrawal of police personnel attached to VIPs, the Commanding Officer directs, with immediate effect, the withdrawal of all personnel of SPU Base 16 attached to VIPs/Beats across the federation back to base.”
Under the new arrangement, VIPs seeking security protection will need to request personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The Presidency emphasized that the change is intended to increase police presence in communities, particularly in remote areas where understaffed stations leave residents vulnerable.
Tinubu highlighted the need for officers to concentrate on their core responsibilities. The statement added: “Many parts of Nigeria, especially remote areas, have few policemen at the stations, thus making the task of protecting and defending the people difficult.” To support this strategy, the government has approved recruiting 30,000 new police officers nationwide and plans upgrades to training facilities in collaboration with state governments.
The decision comes in response to a recent surge in attacks, particularly in Northern Nigeria, including Kebbi and Kwara states. By redirecting officers to community policing, the government aims to improve public safety while ensuring VIPs remain protected under the NSCDC framework.